Carolyn Crayne

Carolyn Mary Crayne, 73, of DeWitt, Michigan, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026. Carol had a zest for life that often inspired others. Her smile, sense of humor, and hearty laughter always left a lasting impression. Simply put, Carol loved life and especially if it involved family, friends, horses, cats, theatre, travel, books, chocolate, sunshine, shopping, a good joke, and a meal out.

Carol was a lover of horses and enjoyed going to different equestrian events throughout the USA.  She rode for many years on her favorite, trusted and loyal mount "Boots" at Howard Stables and Fox Meadow Farm in Temperence, MI, where she especially enjoyed riding/conversation with the Wednesday morning ladies group.  She was also a longtime member and past president of the Springbrook Riding Club.

Travel and live theatre were other loves.  As often as she could, she would visit family in England and Scotland; other times a Princess Line cruise took her to ports around the US and beyond; but any and all road trips were probably her favorite.  Live theatre also took Carol to other destinations virtually as she was a season pass holder at the Stranahan Theater in Toledo and enjoyed many live theatre performances over the years.

Carol also loved the sun and it loved her.  She enjoyed spring, summer, and fall days poolside or patio-side relaxing with a great book soaking up sunshine and establishing a wonderful bronze glow to wear year-round. The only things that might interrupt would be mention of a shopping spree or a meal out -- she always said her favorite thing for dinner was "a reservation," with friends around the table!

Carol was loyal to her friends, had a strong patriotism for her country and the military, and was a solid supporter of the Special Olympics, the Toledo Humane Society, St. Jude's Hospital, and Paralyzed Veterans of America.

Carol's life was no ordinary life, she battled progressive health challenges beginning in her late twenties and throughout her life. Yet her mind and humor stayed sharp, even as her body could not.  Carol was giving, loyal and sincerely appreciative to all her friends and her many caregivers over the years. Very much due to that support, her life was a life well lived, full of laughter, love and experiences.  Carol's life and presence is one that will be missed.  

Carolyn Mary Crayne was born on February 9, 1953 in Galt (Cambridge), Ontario, Canada to English parents James and Mary (Lawton) Wright. Carol attended various schools in Detroit before her family relocated to Newport, MI, where she graduated from Jefferson High School in 1970.  She later attended Davis College and successfully pursued a career in the medical field.

Carol is survived by her twin brother Chris (Diane) Wright of Monroe, MI, nephew Christopher (Stephanie) Wright of  San Mateo, California, and many close cousins and their families:  Patricia Lawton of Eaton Rapids (Jess, Skye, Elle), Steve (Dawn) Lawton of Rochester Hills (Jennifer, Mike, Kyle, Jenna, Mason, Amelia, Issac), May (Robert) Harrison of Doncaster, England, Janet (Charles) Hannon of Dublin, Ireland, and best friends Lori Allee and Deb Muszynski.  She was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents Ethel and Edward Lawton, beloved aunts and uncles Allan (Jean) Lawton, Jack (Ethel) Broadhead, Herbert (Anne) Lawton, and many cherished cousins.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, March 28, 2026 at Reeb Funeral Home, 5712 Main Street, Sylvania, OH, 43560. Visitation will be held at 11 am, with services starting at noon. If desired, memorial contributions may be made towards the Special Olympics, Toledo Humane Society, St. Jude's Hospital or Paralyzed Veterans of America, her dearest charities.

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